This podcast will bring you the latest interviews from some of the leading figures within the venture capital landscape in Ireland and abroad. Our interviews focus on a diverse range of people from founders to investors. The goal is to find out about the highs and lows of each individual's journey to date and to give our audience a unique insight into the different elements of our ecosystem.
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June 16, 2026Episode 3744 min
The Irish VC ep37: The Google Takeover - Founder Focus Live Panel on Startups, Scaling & AI
Live from Google HQ Dublin! Delighted to introduce our 3rd Annual Google Takeover Live panel discussion for the Irish VC Podcast with the headline panel of:Host: Neil Lock - GoogleGuests: Mark Kirwan of Positive Carbon, Joseph Smyth of Joulica, Sean Mullaney of Seapoint& Portia Healy O’ Connor of Linda ai.Discover how AI-native startups are transforming industries with innovative solutions. This episode reveals how founders are reducing food waste, enhancing customer journeys, and revolutionizing healthcare with AI. Learn the secrets to building trust, managing rapid AI integration, and turning ideas into enterprise-ready solutions. Perfect for founders, investors, and technologists eager to leverage AI for growth without compromising trust or quality. Tune in to explore AI as the engine of growth and gain insights to accelerate your startup's journey.
May 6, 2026Episode 3628 min
The Irish VC ep36: Unlocking Ireland’s Renewable Future - An Interview with Pat Smith of Local Power Ltd
Discover insights from Pat Smith, Managing Director of Local Power Limited, on Ireland’s renewable energy prospects, particularly in biomethane, solar PVs, and battery storage. This episode explores how farmers and rural communities can harness green energy, the importance of government support, and the role of innovative projects in shaping Ireland’s sustainable future.Main Topics Covered:Pat Smith’s background and journey into agriculture and energyThe Irish farming community’s role and challenges in renewable energy adoption.Current tensions between farmers and government, and what’s driving unrestThe potential of biomethane, solar PV, and battery storage for IrelandGovernment policies and the urgent need for clear support in renewable sectorsLocal Power’s projects and future plans, including Ireland’s first fully licensed biomethane facilityPractical advice for startups and young entrepreneurs in renewable energyLocal Power LimitedBVP Website www.bvp.ieTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Pat Smith and his journey from farm background to renewable energy innovator03:17 - The evolution from traditional farming into energy entrepreneurship with Local Power06:16 - Current tensions between farmers and government, and what’s driving unrest08:12 - The importance of diversification: energy solutions for farmers and rural communities10:28 - What is biomethane and its significance for Ireland’s energy independence12:37 - Challenges and policy gaps blocking biomethane industry growth14:24 - The stalled Carna Ross biomethane project – opportunities and government support needed15:52 - The philosophy behind Local Power’s mission to keep power within rural communities17:08 - Advances in battery storage technology and its role in renewable energy management19:00 - The growth of solar PV installations among farms and businesses in Ireland20:33 - The impact of government grants and incentives on accelerating renewable adoption21:36 - How businesses and farmers can get involved with Local Power and renewable projects23:23 - Advice for startups and young entrepreneurs in renewable energy26:44 - Key takeaways on resilience, pivoting, and smart work in building a successful business28:23 - The bright future for Ireland’s renewable sector, despite current setbacks28:58 - Insights on collaboration with BVP investor group and funding opportunities for biomethane30:17 - Ireland’s first fully licensed biomethane plant – ambitions and stakeholder benefitsResources & Links:Connect with Pat Smith.
March 6, 2026Episode 3533 min
The Irish VC ep:35 The Inside Scoop with BVP Director Stephen Burdock
In this episode, Stephen Burdock, Director of BVP Investments, shares his extensive experience in banking, private equity, and investment strategies. He discusses what makes a compelling pitch, the importance of team versus idea, and insights into Ireland's emerging sectors like AI and health tech. Don't miss the upcoming Funder/ Founder event open to the public mentioned at the end of the episode! Chapters00:00 Introduction to BVP and Stephen Burdock06:03 Understanding BVP's Investment Offerings12:07 Crafting the Ideal Pitch17:46 Navigating Feedback and Future Opportunities23:47 Emerging Sectors for First-Time Founders29:48 Lessons from Missed Opportunities
January 30, 2026Episode 3442 min
The Irish VC ep34: State of Venture Capital in 2026
In this episode of the Irish VC podcast, host Sarah Jane Larkin discusses the current state of venture capital in 2026 with industry experts Elliott Griffin, Gillian Buckley, and Amy Neale. They explore the challenges and opportunities in the global and Irish VC landscape, the impact of AI on investment strategies, and provide valuable advice for founders navigating the fundraising environment. The conversation highlights the importance of access to capital, the evolution of the Irish VC market, and the need for a focus on commercialisation skills and disciplined financial management.Chapters00:00 State of Venture Capital in 202607:24 The Evolution of Irish Venture Capital16:13 The Impact of AI on Investment23:00 Advice for Founders in 202635:05 Navigating the Exit Environment42:38 sportsRecreation-intro-high-short.wav
December 4, 2025Episode 3417 min
The Irish VC ep33: FAQ's on EIIS 2025 with BVP Investments
In this conversation, Marie Nolan interviews Stephen Tully, CFO of BVP Investments, to demystify and talk through some frequently asked questions around the Employment Investment Incentive Scheme (EIIS). They discuss the benefits of EIIS, including tax relief for investors, and highlight a successful case study of Astatine, a company that has significantly grown with BVP's support. The conversation also covers BVP's investment strategy, the types of companies they target, and the application process for potential investors. Tune in now, it's a short and snappy one if you want to find out more about this tax relief investment opportunity. The BVP EIIS Fund is open for investment until the 31st December! Check out www.bvp.ie for more information!Chapters00:00 Introduction to EIS and BVP Investments01:52 Success Story: Astatine and Its Growth04:55 Understanding Tax Relief and Investment Risks09:50 BVP's Investment Strategy and Sector Focus14:35 Investor Profiles and Application Process18:29 FAQs and Early Exit Opportunities
October 30, 2025Episode 3232 min
The Irish VC ep32: From Pharma to VC - Insights with Caroline Gaynor of Lightstone VC
In this episode of The Irish VC, Caroline Gaynor (Guest), Partner of Lightstone VC emphasises the importance of building a strong support network for founders, particularly those who are first-time entrepreneurs. Sarah Jane Larkin (Host) & Caroline both highlight the challenges of lacking a track record and the need for guidance from experienced individuals. Additionally, Caroline stresses the often-overlooked necessity of having a well-thought-out fundraising strategy, urging founders to understand the funding landscape and the various players involved. Tune in now! #BVP #TheIrishVC #IVCA #Entrepreneur #VentureCapital
September 26, 2025Episode 3127 min
The Irish VC ep31: With Denise Sidhu, Director & Partner at Kernel Capital
In this episode, Denise Sidhu, Director and Partner at Kernel Capital, shares her journey into venture capital, discussing the lessons learned over her 20-year career. She highlights the current state of the venture capital landscape in Ireland, the challenges faced by startups, particularly in securing funding, and the importance of perseverance and optimism. Denise also advocates for increased support for women in entrepreneurship and offers valuable advice for founders and aspiring investors.Chapters00:00Denise Sidhu's Journey into Venture Capital05:39Lessons from 20 Years in Venture Capital06:07Current State of the Irish Venture Capital Landscape08:35Exciting Sectors in Irish Venture Capital12:21Challenges Faced by Irish Founders19:13Advocating for Women in Entrepreneurship22:09Advice for Aspiring Founders24:53Transitioning into Venture Capital26:52Final Thoughts and Community Support
September 1, 2025Episode 3055 min
The Irish VC ep30: Branding for Start-ups! The Balancing Act - Product vs. Brand.
This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at Munster Technology University (MTU) in Cork. In this episode of the Irish VC podcast, the panel comprising of Hilary O'Shea from Otonomee, Alison MacSweeney from Brandhive & Ryan O'Neill from LegitFit discusses the critical role of branding for start-ups, emphasising the balance between product development and brand identity. They explore strategies for building a brand on a budget, the impact of cultural identity on branding, and the importance of authenticity. The conversation also touches on common branding mistakes, the value of a strong online presence, and how purpose-driven companies can attract talent and customer loyalty. Insights from various founders highlight the evolving landscape of branding and marketing in today's competitive environment.Chapters below:00:00 Introduction to the Irish VC Podcast03:00 The Role of Branding in Startups06:04 Product vs. Brand: The Startup Dilemma08:51 Building a Brand with Limited Resources12:09 Scaling a Brand Globally14:58 The Impact of Irish Identity on Branding17:54 Valuing Brand in Investment20:52 Mistakes in Branding and Marketing23:43 The Importance of Authenticity in Branding26:59 The Future of Branding and Marketing Strategies30:02 Final Thoughts on Branding and Purpose
July 31, 2025Episode 2916 min
The Irish VC ep29: Fireside chat with Brian Thornes, from orthopaedic surgeon to Inventor!
In this short episode of the Irish VC, Mark Farrelly of HBAN (Halo Business Angel Network) has a fireside chat with Brian Thornes. From orthopaedic surgeon to Inventor & CEO, Brian tells us about the ground-breaking development of the X-Bolt hip fracture system. Discover how this innovative technology is transforming orthopaedic care around the world, offering enhanced stability and faster recovery for patients. For any angel investors interested in potentially investing in this company, please email hello@bvp.ie for further information. Enjoy the episode!
June 30, 2025Episode 281 hr 1 min
The Irish VC ep28: Ireland as a launchpad @NovaUCD
Welcome to this special edition of The Irish VC recorded in front of a live audience at NovaUCD, the hub of innovation at University College Dublin. Hosted by Mark Farrelly of HBAN & joined by 3 fantastic founders on the guest panel, Alan Barry (PlasmaBound), Apoorva Kumar (InspeqAI) & Dr Harriet Treacy (Beyond BMI).This podcast episode explores the vibrant startup ecosystem in Ireland, featuring insights from founders in health tech, AI, and advanced materials. The discussion covers their journeys, the challenges they face, and the opportunities available in the Irish innovation landscape. Key themes include the importance of funding, the role of support organizations, and the need for cultural and legislative changes to foster entrepreneurship. The episode highlights Ireland's strengths in MedTech and the evolving HealthTech sector, as well as the potential for AI to disrupt various industries! Tune in and enjoy!
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